Authors:
M.E.Ukabiala
, P.K. Kefas
, A.U. Akpan-Idiok
, H.J. Philip
,
F. G. Ngasoh
and A. P. Kefas |
Abstract:
The aim of this research was to study the physicochemical characteristics, degradation rate and
vulnerability potential of soils collected from Ihitte/Uboma Local Government Area of Imo
State, Nigeria and suggest appropriate management strategies. Thirty composite soil samples (0-
15 and 15-30cm) were collected from agricultural lands at fifteen locations and were analysed
and characterized as follows: texture of loamy sand surface overlying sandy loam subsurface; pH
(4.1-5.3), organic carbon (0.34-3.15%), total nitrogen (0.02-0.15%), carbon-nitrogen ratio (8.3-
39.7), available P (3.27-70.59mg kg
-1
), effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC) (2.74-
20.44cmolckg-1
), base saturation (6.68-90.71%), Ca:Mg ratios (1.89-3.20) and Mg:K ratio (3.33-
24.44). The soil Degradation Rate (SDR)/Vulnerability potential (Vp), weighted values of
texture (4/2), soil pH(H2O) (4/2), organic carbon (4/2), total nitrogen (4/2) effective cation
exchange capacity (3/3) and base saturation (3/3) showed susceptibility of the soils to
degradation or vulnerability. The soils could be managed by liming, planting of acid tolerant
species and adopting appropriate cultural practices. |
